Blue Memories

Aside from their general health benefits, animal studies have suggested that blueberries increase neuron-to-neuron communication in the brain, improve glucose use in the brain & are involved in memory function. So researchers tested the effects in humans: participants in their 70s who were showing early signs of memory loss had to drink 2 1/2 cups of blueberry juice daily for 12 weeks compared with placebo. Those who had drunk the blueberry juice showed improved paired associate learning & improved word list recall. There was also a trend toward reduced depressive symptoms & lower glucose levels. The results suggest that blueberries may be a way to ward off memory loss - if you can remember to take them.